Owner's Manuals

Warranty

FAQs

My camera won't power on. What can I do?

If you have a second battery, try it to see if you can power on the camera. If you don't have an extra battery and you're sure the battery you have is fully charged then the camera may need to be serviced. Click Here.

Is there any software for the Mac OS that will work with the camera or camcorder?

Yes, iMovie and iPhoto can be used to import the video and pictures.

Is PHOTOfunSTUDIO compatible with Mac?

No, PHOTOfunSTUDIO is not compatible with Mac.

If a SDHC, SDXC Memory Card is used for continuous video recording, will it stop recording when it reaches 4GB?

In AVCHD video recording, the file will be divided, but it will not stop recording video. However, in MP4 video recording, recording will stop when 4GB is reached.

I was looking for a new SD card for my Lumix and found some that are Wi-Fi enabled ("Eye Fi" brand and similar). Are these compatible with this particular camera?

Panasonic does not specifically set up our cameras to work with this type of SD Card. The best thing to do is check the website of the manufacturer of the card. They usually list all the cameras that their card works with.

I saw a notice on Panasonic's web site that a firmware update was available for my camera. What is a "firmware update" and is it important that I install it?

Panasonic may occasionally add a new feature to the camera, or if we discover a minor problem after the camera started selling Panasonic may issue new firmware to make the necessary changes. Any new firmware release includes a description of the changes it makes. If you are having the problem it corrects, or if you want to add the new feature, follow the instructions and install the update. You should always begin the firmware update usong a fully charged battery.

I just purchased an SDXC card (48 GB or 64GB). When I connect my camera to my computer running the MAC OS it's unable to read the card. Is there an update available?

At this time Apple (MAC) does not recognize or support SDXC media. We anticipate that Apple may already be working on a software solution. Please contact Apple for additional information.

I cannot seem to figure out why the flash goes off twice when shutter button pressed to take pictures.

This occurs once red-eye reduction flash option selected. The subject should remain still until second flash triggered.

How do I turn off the "Flash" function?

On most models, press the button just above "menu". It is labeled with a "lightening bolt". Pressing it will offer several options related to the flash operation.

How do I transfer video from my camera to my PC?

Here is how to transfer video to your PC.

The power on both the camera and PC should be on. Connect the camera to the PC with a USB cable.

Open the PhotoFunStudio program.

Click on the "Copy to PC" icon.

Click on the Icon representing your camera.

Click the "Next" button.

A check mark will appear in the corner box of all thumbnails selected for transfer.

There appears to be something wrong with the internal components of the unit. Try resetting the camcorder. To reset the camcorder, go to the Menu screen and select "Setup". Next select "Initial Set". If the issue persists, the camcorder needs to be serviced. Click the link below and submit a new repair request:

When a battery is inserted into a Panasonic charger a green steady light will appear. When the green light goes out, the battery is completely charged, and ready to use in the camera. A blinking GREEN LED indicates a charging problem. The battery can be "shorted", though more often it is caused by a battery that is too hot or too cold. The battery should be allowed to come to room temperature before charging. Also, if the battery is 100% discharged, the blinking condition will subside after the battery has been on the charger for 10-15 minutes. If the condition persists, the battery should be replaced.

How do I insert/remove the SD card or battery?

The SD Card slot and battery compartment are located next to each other. They can generally be found on the bottom or side of the camera behind the door labeled "Memory card/battery". If you need more assistance please click here for Help &amp; Tutorials.

How do I download a copy of the software that came with my camera, I lost mine?

The software cannot be downloaded. Please contact our parts department who can supply a copy after proof of purchase is provided. There is a small charge for shipping.

How do I convert AVCHD into an MPEG2 file?

To begin the process open "PhotoFunStudio" program.

When the program is opened click on the button to display videos only.

Click on the edit movie icon.

From the drop down list select "Convert MPEG2".

Click on the AVCHD thumbnails you wish to convert. The selected thumbnails will be highlighted in blue and have a checkmark in the box at the upper left.

When you have selected all the thumbnails for conversion click the "Next" button.

Click on the "Execute" button to begin conversion.

Click "Yes" to continue.

Please wait while the files are being converted.

Once done click "OK" to continue.

Click "Close".

Now click "Yes" to exit the wizard.

The converted videos will now have an MPEG2 icon in the lower right corner.

Press, "Playback" to bring up image, then press "Trash Can" to delete.

How can videos and pictures be transferred to my PC without using the supplied software?

Connect the camcorder to the PC via USB cable. After camcorder and PC are connected, drag and drop the files to the specified folder.Note: The files that are drag and drop cannot be edited, burn or playback using the supplied software.It is recommended to use the supplied software to transfer the pictures and videos to the PC.

How can the error message "Check card" be resolved when inserting SD card.

Confirm the SD card is not in "LOCK" position.Check if the SD works in the PC. If yes, format the SD card using the PC and reinsert the SD card.If the issue persists try to use a different SD card. If the issue remains on all of the SD cards the camcorder needs servicing. Click the link below and submit a new repair request: http://shop.panasonic.com/ecom/onlineRepair/login

How can I stop the "This Battery Cannot be Used" message?

This message appears when a non-Panasonic battery is used. If the battery is a genuine Panasonic battery, then it should be replaced.

How can I resize my photos in PhotoFunStudio?

To resize your photos, perform the following steps.

Open "PhotFunStudio" program.

After program opens click on the "Edit" icon at the top.

Select "Resize" in the drop down menu.

Click on select all. That will place a check mark in all boxes.

Click on the "Next" button.

Use the "Up/Down" arrows to the left in the to "Expansion/Reduction ratio" section to adjust how much you want to enlarge or reduce the picture(s).

You may register your products online by clicking here. It is not necessary to submit this form in order to effectuate the limited warranty. As long as there is a copy of the receipt, your product warranty begins from the date of purchase.

How can I maximize my SD Card?

The maximum amount of space will be achieved when all previous photos have been deleted. The actual number of photos your card can hold will vary depending on the size, resolution and content of the photos.

How can I download video to a MAC?

Connect to your Mac with the USB cable and import with iMovie 11.

How can I copy photos to my PC?

To copy photos to your PC, perform the following steps.

Launch the "PhotoFunStudio" program.

After the program has opened click on the "Copy to PC" icon.

Click on the icon of the connected device.

Please wait while photos are imported.

The pictures showing will be imported when you click "Next".

Choose the save destination by clicking on the "Browse save destination folders" then click on the "Execute" button.

You can check the repair status of your camera by clicking on the link below and entering your email address and password. Click Here or contacting our Call Center at 1-800-211-7262.

How am I able to correct the error message that my laptop does not find the new equipment whenever I connect my Camcorder to the laptop?

Make sure that you are using the supplied USB that comes with the Camcorder. Then, attempt to connect the camcorder to a different USB port. Also, you may try to connect to a different PC to determine whether the issue is with the PC or camcorder.

English is not my native language and I've noticed that Panasonic's cameras sold in the U.S. only support English and Spanish. How can other languages be added?

Unfortunately, they can't. The languages are embedded into the microprocessor, and selected for each regional version of our cameras. A note of warning - do not attempt to load firmware intended for another region into your camera. It will not change the available languages and it may seriously damage your camera. Such damage is not covered under the product warranty.

Does this camera us SDXC memory cards?

Yes, it can use standard SD cards, SDHC cards, and SDXC cards.

Do you supply software for Mac OS10?

We regret to inform you that Apple support is not provided with this product.

Do I get software with my camera?

PHOTOfunSTUDIO 8.0 LE (Windows XP/Vista/7). This software allows you to copy still pictures or motion pictures to a computer and sort the copied pictures by their recording date and time, model name of the digital camera used, or other attributes. You can write pictures to a DVD, create a Slide Show using your preferred music or effects and so on before saving it to a DVD.

Can you connect this camera to my TV?

Yes, with the supplied cable.

Can this camera take video?

Yes. This unit can record motion pictures in either AVCHD or MP4 formats.

Can the camera's menu be shown in any other language?

Cameras sold for the US market generally support English and Spanish. Portugese is also now supported in some 2012 models.

Can I use a class 10 SDHC card with this camera?

Yes, you can.

Can I record in PAL?

No, NTSC only.

Can additional languages be added to the camera?

The camera is unable to add additional languages.

Are there firmware updates available for my camera?

If the "Drivers &amp; Downloads" tab is visible, then there are updates available for your camera.

Firmware updates are occasionally released to correct minor problems that may have been discovered after the camera was released. Not all cameras may experience the issue that was responsible for the firmware update. Review what the firmware changes and see if you are experiencing the problem that the new version corrects. If so, install it - If not, no need.

Are cameras sold in the U.S. covered by an International Warranty?

Generally, no. Some cameras sold abroad are sold with an international warranty. In order for the warranty to be valid, the proof of purchase must show that the camera was purchased in a country that offers products with international warranties. "Gray Goods", foreign versions purchased in the U.S. would generally not have a valid U.S. warranty, and in some cases even obtaining an out of warranty repair could be a problem when parts are not available.

Why do I have spots on some of my photos?

Spots can occur due to dust or dirt inside the lens, or when flash is used in a very dusty environment.

Why can't I upload my photos to my email service?

You may need to reduce the size of the photos in order to be able to send them through email. Check with your email provider to see what the limitations might be.

Why aren't my file numbers recorded consecutivly?

When you perform an operation after taking a certain action, the pictures may be recorded in folders with different numbers from the ones prior to operation.

Why am I unable to see the videos that were transfered from the product to the PC?

When transferring videos to the PC use the editing software that is provided with the product (HD Writer LE2.0).Also, when transferring videos confirm your destination folder.

You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 or later, or Adobe Reader 7.0 or later installed on your PC.

Where can I order parts for my product?

You can order parts and accessories for your machine from our Parts & Accessories Department at 1-800-833-9626.

Where can I find the firmware for my device?

Click here and enter your model number into the Get Support Now search box. Once your model appears, click on the "Support" link under the picture of your model. This will bring you to the Support Page for your model. If there are any firmware updates available for your model, they will be located under the Drivers &amp; Downloads tab. If there is no Drivers & Downloads tab, your device's firmware is up to date.

What should I do if my camera won't turn on?

First, ensure that the batter is fully charged, keeping in mind that the charge indicator light turns off after charging is complete (approximately 90 minutes). A depleted battery will usually cause the camera to power on, and then quickly off. If your battery is more than a year old, it may need to be replaced. A new battery can be purchased from the Panasonic National Parts Center by calling 800-833-9626 or visiting www.Panasonic.com/parts

What is O.I.S?

O.I.S (Optical Image Stabilizer) helps to reduce the effects of shake during the recording while walking, or holding the unit and recording the subject while using zoom.

What is AVCHD?

AVCHD stands for Advanced Video Coding High Definition. AVCHD is the format for recording and playback of High Definition Videos.

There are vertical/horizontal lines in my LCD screen. What do I do?

We suggest you remove the battery and after a short wait, replace it. If this does correct the issue the camera will need to be sent in for service. Please click here for assistance.Click Here.

The LCD screen on my camera is blank. What do I do?

We suggest you remove the battery and after a short wait, replace it. If this does correct the issue the camera will need to be sent in for service. Please click here for assistance.Click Here.